Serve a Flavorful Brunch with Plant-Based Flair

If you’ve recently switched to a plant-based diet, your focus on foods that come from plant sources and those that are minimally processed won’t make planning your next brunch as challenging as you might think.

We offer an impressive selection of plant-based foods, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, as well as plant-based oils for cooking or dressing things up. Add to that, our wide selection of vegan foods – for those who prefer a diet without any animal products – and your brunch is sure to be beautiful and delicious.

Try tofu, aquafaba instead of eggs

Tofu is a readily available plant-based favorite that works similarly to eggs in the way it acts as a blank canvas for other flavors to mix in. Made from condensed soy milk that is then pressed into solid blocks, tofu ranges in texture from silken to super firm. Mixed with herbs and spices, tofu is richly satisfying. It makes a great scramble when mixed with peppers, cauliflower and turmeric. Add plant-based cheese-style shreds – Daiya brand is among those available at your Market – and your tofu scramble is bound to draw plenty of compliments.

Bakers have long marveled at aquafaba, that starchy liquid that is in a can of chick peas. When whipped it creates a wonderful foam that looks like meringue made from egg whites. Add it to your tofu scramble for an even fluffier presentation. Aquafaba is also a favorite for vegan bakers looking to substitute eggs in their baked goods. Think vegan muffins, savory or sweet: aquafaba is a vegan baker’s go-to binding ingredient.

We also carry plant-based “egg” options, such as JUST Egg, made with protein-rich mung beans and turmeric, that cooks just like eggs and can be used in baked goods in place of them.

Beans for a plant-based protein boost

Plant-based foods that are high in protein include beans, tempeh, lentils and mushrooms, all of which make delicious and hearty additions to your brunch menu. Black beans especially make a versatile ingredient. Try a hash made with black beans and sweet potatoes; bake the ingredients, seasoned with onions, salt and pepper, on a sheet pan for delicious results. Or make avocado toast, a brunch favorite, whipping black beans and avocado together for a nutritional boost. Black bean enchiladas with corn tortillas are a tasty and satisfying brunch offering, too.

Substitute meats, also known as meat analogues, are also growing in popularity. Beyond Meat is one of several brands your Market carries. Such plant-based meat alternatives, which include sausage links, sausage patties and bacon, may be the perfect choice for your brunch table.

Dairy alternatives, whole grains

Plant-based milks abound these days and include oat milk, almond milk, rice milk, hemp milk, soy milk and coconut milk. These milk alternatives work well as creamers in coffees and teas or poured onto whole grain cereals or homemade granola served with fresh fruit.

Fans of pancakes or waffles at brunch are sure to be pleased, thanks to a bevy of plant-based recipes that mix up batters made with rolled oats or buckwheat, among other ingredients.

Don’t hesitate to ask one of your Market’s teammates about the many plant-based foods found in our grocery aisles. Also consider your Market Kitchen for Chef-prepared, plant-based choices and your Market Bakery, which carries a variety of vegan baked goods.

For more brunch recipe ideas, visit our collection of plant-based recipes. Enjoy!